Our Mission

The Mission of the Institute is to provide an independent forum for those who dare to read, think, speak, and write in order to advance the professional, literary, and scientific understanding of sea power and other issues critical to national defense.

First published in 1974, this now classic account of the fight for control of the English Channel and the southern North Sea is told by Peter Scott, a MTB (Motor Torpedo Boat) commander, who saw action throughout World War II. More than a memoir, his book tells the whole story of the small ships and their legendary crews during fierce encounters with the Germans. The bravery of the crews of these small ships became legendary and the casualties that were suffered during brief and fierce encounters were horrific. As the war dragged on, MTB's became household words, and their daring exploits helped to raise the morale of the British in much the same way that the RAF fighter aircraft had done in the Battle of Britain in September 1940.

Sir Peter Scott, the son of explorer Robert Scott, was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for bravery by the Royal Navy in World War II.

Praise for The Battle of the Narrow Seas

“An excellent and very edifying book that makes a welcome and valuable reappearance.”